We measured hs-CRP using an immunoturbidimetric
method (CRPLX, Roche Diagnostics, Indianapolis, IN,
USA) on a COBAS INTEGRA 700 analyser (Roche Diagnostics). The lower detection limit of the hs-CRP was
0.064 mg/L. Internal quality control procedures are
carried out 3--4 times daily. The target CV value is
o2% and was maintained as such. Our laboratory has
been participating in the College of American Pathologists (CAP) survey and inspection.